Note: Citations are based on reference standards. However, formatting rules can vary widely between applications and fields of interest or study. The specific requirements or preferences of your reviewing publisher, classroom teacher, institution or organization should be applied.

Gaining access to sensitive field sites : learning from a study of evaluation practices

In many qualitative research projects, gaining access to research field sites and participants plays a critical role. Using a comparative study of evaluation in classical music and figure skating competitions as an example, this case study highlights some of the practical issues involved in gaining this type of access, especially in sensitive settings, and offers strategies for dealing with these issues. I discuss how my original plan to study admissions at university-level music schools became infeasible as a result of access issues and how those difficulties and needing to change my research plans became a good thing. This discussion also highlights the role of persistence in gaining access. I conclude by emphasizing the importance of flexibility, drawing on previous experience and contacts, preparing for uncertainty, and establishing good rapport and relationships.Read more...

Abstract:

In many qualitative research projects, gaining access to research field sites and participants plays a critical role. Using a comparative study of evaluation in classical music and figure skating competitions as an example, this case study highlights some of the practical issues involved in gaining this type of access, especially in sensitive settings, and offers strategies for dealing with these issues. I discuss how my original plan to study admissions at university-level music schools became infeasible as a result of access issues and how those difficulties and needing to change my research plans became a good thing. This discussion also highlights the role of persistence in gaining access. I conclude by emphasizing the importance of flexibility, drawing on previous experience and contacts, preparing for uncertainty, and establishing good rapport and relationships.